CGL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CGL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which methodology uses the Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle? → Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)
2. What is a key characteristic of an effective genealogical lecture? → Focuses on audience engagement and clarity
3. Which type of DNA test traces direct patrilineal ancestry by following the Y chromosome? → Y-DNA test
4. What is a key performance indicator (KPI)? → A measurable value that demonstrates effectiveness in achieving objectives
5. What is the benefit of using census records in genealogy? → They list family members and relationships
6. What does the acronym 'IBD' stand for in genetic genealogy? → Identical By Descent
7. Which statement best describes the CGL's obligation regarding conflicts of interest in a lecturing context? → Potential conflicts of interest should be disclosed proactively to the audience
8. How should a CGL respond when asked by a host organization to alter the factual content of a presentation to avoid offending certain attendees? → Refuse to misrepresent facts but offer to adjust tone or framing within truthful limits
9. What is the primary goal of a quality improvement program? → To continuously enhance processes and outcomes
10. What is the primary reason to use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) with genealogical research workstations? → To protect against data loss and hardware damage from power outages or surges
11. What makes a data visualization misleading? → Truncated axes, cherry-picked data, or inappropriate chart types
12. A researcher finds a will that names a man's 'son-in-law, John Smith.' In 19th-century U.S. usage, this term most likely means: → Either a son-in-law or a stepson, since the term was used for both
13. What is the primary purpose of a 'research plan' in the GPS framework? → To ensure the research question guides systematic source selection before work begins
14. What is benchmarking in the context of quality improvement? → Comparing performance against best practices or industry standards
15. How does CGL certification benefit employers? → It provides assurance of employee competence and commitment to professional standards
16. Which U.S. federal census was the first to list every member of a household by name? → 1850
17. Which logical fallacy occurs when a genealogist accepts a conclusion simply because a widely-used published genealogy states it? → Appeal to authority
18. Which record type is MOST useful for identifying a woman's maiden name when she died before 1900 in a state without vital registration? → Land deed or probate record naming her as a wife or heir
19. Which approach to audience engagement best reflects professional instructional standards for a CGL? → Incorporate varied instructional methods that address diverse learning styles
20. A genealogist finds two conflicting birth years for an ancestor in different records. According to the Genealogical Proof Standard, the next step is to: → Perform a reasonably exhaustive search and then analyze and correlate all evidence
21. What is the benefit of incorporating active learning techniques in lectures? → It engages and enhances retention
22. Which genealogical principle states that original records are generally more reliable than derivative records? → The principle of original evidence
23. When applying the Genealogical Proof Standard, what does 'reasonably exhaustive search' require? → Consulting all sources that might contain relevant evidence
24. A genealogist's laptop battery drains much faster than when new during research trips. Which maintenance action is most appropriate? → Calibrate or replace the battery and adjust power management settings
25. Which of the following is considered indirect evidence in genealogy? → A tax record
26. When a CGL receives a negative evaluation from a presentation attendee, what is the most constructive professional response? → Reflect on the feedback objectively and consider how it could improve future presentations
27. What is the primary purpose of thorough documentation in professional practice? → To create an accurate record for continuity of care and legal protection
28. How should equipment calibration records be maintained? → Documented with dates, results, and next calibration due date
29. What distinguishes 'indirect evidence' from 'direct evidence' in genealogical research? → Indirect evidence requires inference to answer the research question
30. When should personal protective equipment (PPE) be used? → When hazards cannot be adequately controlled through other means